Apple receives self-driving car testing permit from DMV

CUPERTINO, Calif. -- Apple will begin testing self-driving car technology in California, its first public move into a highly competitive field that could radically change transportation.

RELATED: Complete DMV list of autonomous vehicle permit holders

The California Department of Motor Vehicles awarded Apple a permit to test autonomous vehicles Friday and disclosed that information on its website . A spokesman for the department said the permit will cover three vehicles - all 2015 Lexus RX 450h hybrid SUVs - and six individual drivers. The state requires a human behind the wheel during such testing.

RELATED: 7 incredible facts about Apple's origins

Apple confirmed that it will begin testing self-driving technology in the state, but provided no details. It pointed to a December statement it provided to federal regulators that stated Apple is investing heavily in "machine learning and autonomous systems" and noted "many potential applications" for these technologies.

Click here for more stories on Apple.